FALL 2021
ISSUE 99
MAXIMALISM
Reflector Editor-in-Chief Alexis Hampton Creative Director/ Editor-in-Chief Kayla Hill Photographers Kyle Jenkins Briana Corlee Tamara Tanksley Evelyn Spear Page Designer Kayla Hill
Models Kayla Hill Alexis Hampton Rylie Sparks Jae Pool Joel Jean-Gilles Ashley Monaghan Carolyn Gentry Evelyn Spear Michael Ingenito Kyle Jenkins Tamara Tanksley Jasmine Coye Eden Hodges Michael McFarland Perla Middleton
Chase Amoroso Kaz Thomas Lindsay Lee Erin Chambers Karly Henson Georganna Howell Contributors Lucy’s on Main Bull and Barrel Tandoor and Tap
CONT 04 LETTERS FROM THE EDITORS
Alexis Hampton and Kayla Hill share their experiences with the creation of this masterpiece.
08 HUSTLE CULTURE
How did ‘rise-and-grind’ and ‘no days off’ become the norm? Jacob Smith gives us some insight on the dangers of this mentality.
10 MELANIN Photo spread appreciating black joy and the black community.
14 THE SUAVE LIFE IN STATESBORO
Gone are the days of fast food and franchises. Statesboro has upped its game. A look into this city’s rare luxury.
TENTS 18 THE RISE OF MAXIMALIST FASHION
Say goodbye to Simply Southern and Nike shorts. More is the new more. Say hello to bright colors and faux fur.
24 ASHLEY MONAGHAN
The 70’s called and she answered. This GS design student is making waves with her custom-made vintage garments.
28 ASTROLOGY EXPLAINED
Are you confused about astrology? Good, me too. Let’s figure it out together.
30 DOING THE MOST: LINDSAY LEE
This student takes being active on campus to the next level. It took her some time, but she finally mastered work-life balance.
FROM THE EDITOR
Alexis Hampton I could not be more excited to share this issue of the GeorgeAnne Reflector Magazine with you. This edition is all about Maximalism—the fashion, the lifestyle, and the imagery- all of it. I want to thank all of the writers, editors, photographers, designers and models for being a part of this process. Thank you for offering up your time to create this masterpiece. I also want to thank our interviewees. Thank you for all of your opinions, experiences and expertise. I want to say a special thank you to Sarah Williams of Lucy’s on Main. Thank you for all that you have done to help us in making sure that this magazine is absolutely gorgeous. Finally, I want to say a huge thank you to Crystal Howard and Kayla Hill. Thank you for standing beside me and keeping me calm and level headed while I poured my heart and soul into the production of this magazine. Thank you for constantly reassuring me that this was a possibility and not letting me lose sight of the vision for this issue. I will miss this publication so much, as this is my first and last issue of the George-Anne Reflector. I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity or a better team to be working with and I hope that you enjoy this issue as much as I enjoyed being a part of it.
FROM THE EDITOR
Kayla Hill
This year I had the pleasure of designing and directing the creative aspects of the Reflector Magazine. I am a huge fan of art magazines and zines and I felt like this was the perfect time to change the direction of how we’ve been doing the magazine. With the help of Alexis, we set up photoshoots and visited local businesses all in efforts to make this the best it’s ever been. I want to thank Perla Middleton for taking the time to be our on-hand stylist and providing our models with beautiful clothes to wear for the shoots. I would also like to thank John Adam for providing us with the most flavorful food I’ve ever tasted to be reviewed by us. Lastly, I especially want to thank our amazing photographers and Alexis Hampton for helping me bring my vision to life. Putting together this magazine has been the most fun I’ve ever had in the art field and I will never forget it.
PHOTOGRAPHY Tamara Tanksley
WORK TO LIVE LIVE TO WORK WORK TO LIVE LIVE TO WORK
WORK TO WORK WORK TO WORK WORK TO WORK WORK TO WORK
HUSTLE CULTURE In a time where maximalism is so prominent and the idea that more is better is taking over, it is important to point out where that is not always the case. Hustle culture is a subculture that has arisen recently, emphasizing the value and importance of hard work. Sounds all well and good, right? Well yes, being a hard worker is generally seen as a good trait, especially by your boss, but hustle culture isn’t about being a hard worker. It is about being the hardest worker. Birthed from a culture of individualism and competition, hustle culture promotes constant work. Never stop. That time you’re spending lying in bed isn’t making that bank. That nice full meal at lunch is eating into time that could be spent working. Keep up on that hustle; or it will leave you behind. It’s easy to see how a lifestyle built on constant motivation to improve can turn toxic. Amy Luna, Ph.D, a licensed psychologist and director of the psychology clinic at Georgia Southern, was asked when she feels hard work goes too far. She said, “Hard work isn’t a problem unless it is causing significant distress,” which she defined as “impairing one’s daily functioning and/ or contributing to adverse health effects.” One of the more prominent examples of adverse health effects is burnout. Burnout is the term to describe the collapse in productivity one feels after periods of overwork and/or high stress. They feel overwhelmed and unable to continue working. Of course, the natural end result of a mindset of constant work and constant improvement, with no rest is, crashing and burning. The human being simply is not built for non-stop work. Our systems, both physical and mental, are built with rest as a requirement. Resting the mind and body should always be a priority. Even if you are
a super hard worker, rest is imperative. Time and time again, studies show that after a certain point, more work leads to less productivity. Work done after a certain amount of time without rest becomes work that is far inferior to a well rested individual’s work. The risk of burnout isn’t even close to the reward of extra time with subpar work. So what can be done to change this? How can one maintain a lifestyle of hard work in a healthy manner? How do you treat burnout? Dr. Luna has some advice on that front. “Get plenty of sleep, eat healthy food, and exercise.” It is rather simple— you need time for yourself. Promote your growth in a healthy manner alongside your work. She also recommends learning how to “unplug.” Learn how to switch off work while at home. Refrain from work related thoughts and activities during non-work hours and avoid checking work related emails at home. The separation of work and personal time is important to maintaining a healthy balance in your life. “Engage in self-care. Self-care can be as simple as taking 10 minutes to enjoy a cup of coffee,” says Dr. Luna. The exact way in which you perform self-care is largely irrelevant. What matters is recognizing the need for personal time dedicated to caring for yourself. Lastly, Dr. Luna recommends those affected by overwork or burnout to “Seek help. Ask for help from your supervisor and loved ones, seek out psychotherapy from a licensed mental health clinician or visit your healthcare provider for medical intervention.” You aren’t alone in your struggles. If you find yourself struggling from adverse health as a result of overwork, remember that there are people out there who will help, but you need to ask.
Jacob Smith
How did we get here? How did we reach the point where something commonly seen as a virtue can become a detriment to one’s health? Why has hustle culture gained so much popularity recently? Dr. Luna believes it is out of necessity. “I am surprised by the number of entry-level job advertisements aimed at new graduates that require 1-2 years of experience.” She describes how one might have to work poorly paid internships, along with a side job just to manage until they have a chance at getting the job. The fact that the costs of housing, healthcare, and childcare have been rising for years, but wages have largely remained stagnant, doesn’t help. In addition to this, students take on large amounts of debt to attend college in the first place. This creates a great financial burden for students who, out of necessity, must now work harder than they ever have just to get by in the hopes that someday they will be able to live comfortably. In this way, hustle culture developed as a way for some to cope with their situations; by throwing themselves into their work, telling themselves it is all a good thing. One of the key ideas behind hustle culture is that hard work is the key to earning respect. When someone throws themselves behind such an idea, they become lost in it. Work becomes who they are. Their self-worth becomes tied to how productive they are and how hard they are working. They’ll brag about how much more they work, how little sleep they get, and how many people they are better than. All the while, this lifestyle is destroying them. After a time, the person no longer works to live, but lives to work. Working hard is all well and good, but it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself isn’t something to cut corners on.
PHOTOGRAPHY Evelyn Spear
MELANIN
BLACK JOY is not a split second outburst of an emotional moment of humor.
BLACK JOY is an expression of a deeply entrenched gratefulness that is indigenous to the African American people.
OUR JOY acknowledges the appreciation of the favor of our creator in ages past, its active presence in our existence and the faith that future generations are going to be the recipients of the same.
-Alexis’ dad, Pastor Clarence Hampton
Life Suave Statesboro The
in
Alexis Hampton
Reflector and Creative experienced the uncommon luxury lifestyle in Statesboro and here are our thoughts.
PHOTOGRAPHY Kayla Hill
BULL AND BARREL Located in the heart of downtown Statesboro, this steakhouse is the height of luxury in our small, southern town. Head chef, John Adam, ensures that their menu is of the best quality and ever changing, as the seasons evolve. Some of their signature dishes include Cajun Ribeye—a 14-ounce cut, rubbed with a housemade cajun blend, topped with a crawfish cream sauce—and Pan-Seared Salmon with the skin-on for added crunch. Featured on the dessert menu is an Almond Lavender Creme Brulee—with a sweet, earthy flavored custard—and a rich Flourless Truffle Torte atop a sweet, tangy strawberry sauce. Alexis: “Bull and Barrel makes me feel like the rich auntie I’m destined to be.” Kayla: “This is the best steak I have EVER had.”
PHOTOGRAPHY Evelyn Spear
LUCY’S ON MAIN
This consignment store features all of the luxury items that you never knew you needed. Their luxe faux fur coat collection is extensive and exceptional. The duality of Lucy’s goes beyond their affordable to upscale price range. They can do casual chic with their game day section for all your GATA needs. From Charlotte Russe to Chanel, Birkenstock to Burberry, Lucy’s on Main is sure to be a Statesboro gem. Kayla: Sarah and Perla were very lovely people to meet. They supplied us with clothes and a venue to get ready for the photoshoots. Most of the clothes featured generously came from them.
TANDOOR AND TAP Family-owned and resident-loved, this restaurant is the only Indian restaurant in all of Statesboro and they do not disappoint. The authentic cuisine is complemented by impeccable service, a full bar and entertainment- live musicians and henna artists. They pride themselves on their Garlic Cheese Naan, Butter Chicken and Lamb Chops. Tamara: “Tandoor and Tap was a new experience for me because I never had Indian food before.” PHOTOGRAPHY Kyle Jenkins
PHOTO Kayla Hill
MASK
FASHION
N
PHOTOS Kyle Jenkins
PHOTO Kyle Jenkins
THE RISE OF MAX
Alexis Hampton Step back, minimalism. Organized chaos and pretty clutter are taking over the fashion world. That’s right. We’re talking about maximalism. Often described as a reaction against minimalism, maximalism is an aesthetic of excess. It’s all about being extra. Too much just isn’t enough. MORE is more. But why is it all the rage in fashion these days? Well, starting as an interior design style, the trend evolved into the fashion movement that we see so much of today.
“We take our fashion cues from interior design,” said Hope Simpara Wallace, Assistant Professor of Fashion Merchandising and Apparel Design at Georgia Southern. We also have influencers to thank for the popularization of these fashion trends. Celebrity culture is shifting and now influencers are in the spotlight. Most importantly, people care more about the earth now. Since the planet is dying, sustainability is thriving more and more, and maximalist fashion tends to be more sustainable. Now, how can you achieve the maximalist look?
XIMALIST FASHION
PatternMixing Maximalism says zebra and cheetah print can go together, when every other fashion rule says they can’t. Mixing patterns is a staple in maximalism and, dare we say, a necessity. The important thing to remember is complimentary colors and tones. You can always mix patterns with the same color, but if that doesn’t work out, mix patterns that have similar tones.
PlaywithTextures The use of textures is your best friend when it comes to achieving this bold style. A general rule of thumb is to pair matte with shiny, but it doesn’t have to stop there. Try pairing bulky with smooth or opaque with sheer. Having that extra bit of variety makes the look that much more extraordinary.
BrightColors Vibrant colors are a true staple of maximalism. When styling a maximalist look, it’s very important to take note of the colors in your look. There should always be a pop of color—if the entire outfit isn’t already a pop of color. Neons are always a good place to start, but as long as the colors attract the eye, you’re doing it right. The goal is to stand out, not blend in.
L a y e r i n g Stack a fringe vest on top of that blouse. Add a printed blazer to your button down. Layers are a go. According to Wallace, the reason we layer today is because of Marc Jacobs and his 90’s grunge collection. The key is to lead the eye down the body. Accentuate your features. So, if you’re going to wear a knee length coat, wear a tucked shirt with high waisted pants to elongate your body.
F a u xF u r If you’re looking for maximalist fashion inspiration, chances are that you’re going to see some faux fur. Faux fur is a less expensive and more sustainable option than real fur. You could go with solid fur, printed fur or a more textured fur like a shaggy look. When wearing fur, it’s important to remember that it is the staple piece, so build your outfit around it. Try pairing with more simple, neutral colors-and let the star shine.
PHOTOS Tamara Tanksley and Kyle Jenkins
PHOTO Tamara Tanksley
PHOTOGRAPHY Kyle Jenkins
ASHLEYAlexis MONAGHAN Hampton Ashley Monoghan, GS Fashion Merchandising and Design major, solves the problem of boredom with her designing. Recently switching from engineering after three years, where she was taught creative problem solving, she learned that she is a bit more interested in the creative than the problem solving. “I want to be able to put together the clothes I want to see,” said Monoghan. Monaghan uses Depop to sell the pieces she creates and loves working with bright colors and vintage fabrics— perfect for the everyday maximalist.
“I want to be able to put together the clothes I want to see.” PHOTOGRAPHY Tamara Tanksley
Ashley uses her Instagram, @Ae.Monaghan, to advertise her designs.
PHOTOGRAPHY Kyle Jenkins
ASTROLOGY: EXPLAINED Want to get into astrology, but have no idea where to start?. You know your sun sign and nothing else. Or maybe you’re a Capricorn and are confused why you don’t identify with the generic horoscopes you read for your sign. Astrology is a complex study consisting of the belief that planetary and astral placements influence our character and what occurs during our lives. The gateway to understanding astrology and how it relates to you is by calculating your birth chart. Now, what the hell is a birth chart? A birth chart or natal chart is a map showing where the planets, asteroids and other celestial bodies were at the time of your birth. Birth charts show us all eight planets (nine if you include our little old friend Pluto.) The sun, moon, and each of the planets are all believed to personify specific human traits and roles. So, what does each celestial body represent in astrology ? Let’s start with the signs.
Zodiac Signs & Their Characteristics Aries - fire element Strengths: Ardent, concentrated, cheerful Weaknesses: Short-tempered, aggressive, impulsive Taurus - earth element Strengths: Dependable, pragmatic, persistent Weaknesses: Too serious, possessive, irritable
Leo - fire element Strengths: Generous, performative, philanthropic Weaknesses: Stubborn, simple-minded, arrogant
Sagittarius - fire element Strengths: Playful, loving, athletic, Weaknesses: Careless, impatient, absentminded
Virgo - earth element Strengths: Balanced, clean, clever Weaknesses: Selective, demanding, gossipy
Capricorn- earth element Strengths: Unique, family-oriented, responsible Weaknesses: Egotistical, unadaptable, uncommunicative
Gemini - air element Strengths: Versatile, communicative, witty Weaknesses: Unreliable, equivocal, scattered
Libra - air element Strengths: Elegant, romantic, logical Weaknesses: Unwilling, selfish, irresponsible
Aquarius- air element Strengths: Independent, curious, calm Weaknesses: Intrusive, unromantic, secretive
Cancer - water element Strengths: Considerate, organized, creative Weaknesses: Indecisive, sensitive, jealous
Scorpio - water element Strengths: Loyal, outgoing, perceptive Weaknesses: Manipulative, argumentative, very opinionated
Pisces- water element Strengths: Imaginative, charming, empathetic Weaknesses: Senseless, timid, sensitive
PHOTO Tamara Tanksley
Erin Chambers
Celestial Bodies & Their Characteristics Sun The sun is the center of our universe. The well-known star embodies warmth, creativity, happiness, strength, ego and success. When someone asks you, “What’s your sign?,” it is likely you are telling them your sun sign. Whatever your sun sign represents is the most basic representation of who you are. Moon The moon represents our emotional nature and our truest form. For instance, if your moon sign is in Gemini - you display Gemini traits in your emotional side and inner self. You might find that your emotions are ever-changing or that you never stop talking when you get comfortable with someone. Your relationships and how you connect to others on a personal and intimate level is greatly influenced by your moon sign. Mercury Mercury in astrology represents our communication styles and how we understand the world around us. The sign Mercury falls under in a birth chart tells a lot about how someone processes information or even what they find interesting. Venus Venus, the planet of love. The planet of beauty. The planet of art and aesthetics. The planet of material desires. Where Venus is in your birth chart describes how you love
others and your idea of romance. Venus’ position also showcases what you deem beautiful, your preferred homelife and your personal style. Venus answers the question “What do you find desirable in this life?” Mars Mars is one of the most powerful planets in astrology. This planet represents passion and drive in life. Mars tells us how we behave when angry or under pressure. The sign that Mars is in your birth charts tells you about your methods of exhibiting courage. Jupiter Jupiter—our largest planet—rules over expansion, wisdom, growth, luck and all things grand. Where it falls in your birth chart determines where you might find luck and what you are naturally successful at in this life. Someone with Jupiter in Virgo may find that they accomplish tasks with little effort and perfection easier than others. Saturn Saturn represents structure and discipline. Saturn determines the boundaries you must set for yourself and the life lessons you gather along the way. Depending on the sign it falls under, Saturn highlights the area of “tough love” that you might endure in your lifetime. Saturn always brings the questions “Where am I slacking and how can I improve?.”
Uranus Uranus is considered a generational planet because it spends about seven years in each sign. Uranus is awakening, innovation and sudden changes. It rules the unpredictable and uncertain. The Uranus in Aquarius generation (born 1995 to 2003) are believed to be more inclined to fight social issues for the greater good of humanity and bring fresh creativity to the world. Neptune Neptune, a generational planet, only moves into a new sign every 14 years. This dreamy planet rules over inspiration, the subconscious and illusions. The Neptune in Aquarius generation (born 1998 to 2012) feels right at home in the unconventional sign of Aquarius. Thinking outside the box and breaking barriers that were set before them is what they’re best at. Pluto The small, but mighty, Pluto rules over transformation. Pluto spends from 12 to 31 years in each sign. Pluto is believed to represent your generation’s “collective soul purpose.” Where Pluto falls in the birth chart tells you where your generation feels the intensity to change. The Pluto in Sagittarius generation (born 1995 to 2008) are keen to the more philosophical parts of life. Newage spirituality and general open mindedness are themes of the fiery Pluto in Sagittarius generation.
Kaylan Peek Ellandandant everorerum quidem qui odi ut labore laut quias es et pro beribusda sequam PHOTO Kyle Jenkins
DOING THE MOST McKenzie Kerrigan What is “doing the most?” In formal terms, you could consider it to be putting a lot of effort into something. In Reflector terms, it is a form of hustle. A college lifestyle means getting involved, trying new things and finding what makes you, you. We asked a local college student who we think embodies doing the most, what that is for her.
Try not to overextend yourself, because it is not worth it if you are not enjoying it PHOTO Tamara Tanksley
MEET LINDSEY LEE: A senior, sorority leader, panhellenic board member, SOAR leader, student worker and volunteer leader—but that’s just the beginning. For her, this lifestyle is not a walk in the park. However, walking down the pedestrium and seeing other club members is something she does frequently. Inspired by how many people she meets and serves around the community, Lee is motivated to continue volunteering. A big piece of advice she offers to people interested in being active on campus and living the college life to the fullest is to not take on more than you can handle. “Try not to overextend yourself, because it is not worth it if you are not enjoying it,” said Lee. Mental health is something she values highly when considering her work ethic. Lee strives for the best in all that she does,
and says that poor mental health can be a big roadblock. A busy schedule may seem like it goes hand in hand with success, but knowing when to take a break and knowing your limits is something most people struggle with. Lee says while she is still learning the process of self-care and is continuing to find her way, she has come very far from struggling in her junior and sophomore years. Taking breaks, loving the activities you choose and organizing are her top three tips to anyone; no matter what lifestyle they have. Lee says she loves her agendas and color-coordinating so much, she has different pen colors for each club she is in. Planners are her best friend, as she is a visual person and likes being able to see everything that she has coming. Because carrying a book around may not be the best for everyone, she recommends a
PHOTOS Kyle Jenkins virtual planner, or doubling up and trying a physical and virtual planner. While trying agendas and multiple pen colors works for her now, Lee wasn’t always where she is now in her student career. “I am still growing and trying to set up boundaries, healthy boundaries.” This has been her healthiest year yet, and while it isn’t over and she is continuously learning what is best for her, she is so proud to celebrate her senior year in a healthy manner. Finding what works best for you isn’t always easy. Finding this balance has taken almost all four years of college for her. While her schedule may seem jam packed, she does wish she had the time to add Serve 912 and more volunteering efforts into the mix. In the words of Lee, “Get involved!” It’ll make your college experience so much better.
